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High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac and Cheese served in a bowl

High-Protein Creamy Philly Cheesesteak Mac & Cheese

Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of mac & cheese infused with the savory essence of a Philly cheesesteak. This protein-packed dish is a family favorite and easy to prepare in just one pan!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Dairy
  • 8 oz Dry Macaroni Whole wheat or chickpea pasta can be used
  • 8 oz Light Cream Cheese Regular cream cheese for a richer sauce
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Any favorite melting cheese can substitute
  • 4 slices Light Cheese Slices Any good melting cheese slice will do
Meat and Vegetables
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can be swapped with ground turkey or chickpeas
  • 1 cup Chopped White Onion Yellow onion works well as a substitute
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Use freshly minced for maximum flavor
  • 2 cups Bell Peppers Red, Green & Yellow mix based on preference
Seasonings and Extras
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Chili Flakes Adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Optional for garnish

Method
 

Cooking
  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions and drain. Set aside.
  2. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Add the onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Toss in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  5. Add the ground beef or chickpeas and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes.
  6. Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
  7. Reduce heat and add the cream cheese. Stir until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.
  8. Mix in the mozzarella and light cheese slices until everything is cheesy and gooey.
  9. Gently fold in the cooked macaroni until coated in the creamy goodness.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Notes

For a lighter option, consider using olive oil instead of butter and experiment with different cheese types. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. Reheat by mixing in a splash of milk for maintaining creaminess.